Rindge, N.H. – Today, Franklin Pierce University was honored to welcome Congresswoman Ann McLane Kuster (NH-02) to its Rindge Campus for a tour of the Marcucella Health Sciences Building. During her visit, Congresswoman Kuster met with faculty and students, who are majoring in health sciences and biology and will continue their education at FPU graduate clinical programs, to discuss the University’s leading role in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Franklin Pierce University has established itself as a leader in allied health undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on serving rural populations. Congresswoman Kuster has been an instrumental supporter of the University’s mission, helping to secure $825,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for a state-of-the-art simulation lab at the University’s Lebanon Academic Center. Additionally, she has championed the inclusion of $1 million in the FY25 federal budget to go toward vital renovations in Marcucella Hall, which will enhance lab space and provide new equipment to support the experiential learning experience of students on the Rindge Campus.

Congresswoman Kuster, who has long been an advocate for rural healthcare and education, remarked on the importance of these investments in the future of New Hampshire’s healthcare workforce.

“New Hampshire, like much of the rest of the country, is experiencing health care workforce shortages. Fortunately, schools like Franklin Pierce University are leading the way in training and preparing the next generation of health care workers to shore up and support this essential industry,” said Kuster. “I have been proud to partner with New Hampshire’s institutions of higher education to help equip them with the resources they need to support health care workers and set them up for success. Together, we will continue working to ensure that every Granite Stater can access the care they need, regardless of where they live.”

“We are incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Kuster for her unwavering support of Franklin Pierce University and our students,” said President Peter Eden, Ph.D. “Her commitment to securing resources that enhance our health sciences programs is a testament to her dedication to the future of healthcare, particularly in rural communities. These investments will ensure that our students are empowered with skills and experience needed to understand and utilize modern approaches in biomedical science research and clinical application.”

Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Catherine M. Paden, Ph.D. echoed President Eden’s sentiments, stating, “The support of Congresswoman Kuster allows us to continue our mission of providing high-quality education and training to students who will serve in critical healthcare roles. The enhancements to Marcucella Hall will directly benefit our students, giving them the tools they need to succeed in their studies and future careers.”       

Franklin Pierce University has been actively engaged in broadening its reach through the expansion of its graduate programs, with a particular emphasis on underserved populations in New Hampshire and beyond. The University offers Master of Physician Assistant Studies programs in Lebanon, NH (on-site), Goodyear, AZ (hybrid), and Round Rock, TX (hybrid) as well as Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs in both Goodyear (hybrid) and Lebanon (on-site) and Nursing programs in Manchester, NH (on-site).

###